Settle in with a warm drink and a good read with this live-edge coffee table with an integrated magazine/book rack.
Design
This large slice of Elm has a bold style with a very dynamic form. The folded live-edge whispers hints of the Millenium Falcon and the Z-base carries that nature below the angled prow of this table. With a top riddled with character and durable finish, it can play both a support role for your latte, and a leading character in any room. One edge of the live-edge piece is sliced at an angle revealing the deep grain of the wood and creating an angled magazine/book rack to showcase a coffee table book, your favorite magazines, or the book you are enjoying.
Construction
A dark brown Elm top runs in tones from mocha to carmel to flat white. The top features dark resin pours in the characteristic heart of the table and with the various check and cracks that radiate out from the core. At the cleft of the table sparkles a clear resin pour that highlights a natural bark inclusion. The live edge of the table is raw and engaging with a durable finish that will deflect action on the edges. The top has a water-resistant, durable, food-safe finish that is design to be used on floors with a clean, satin finish. The steel book rack and base have a dark steel patina with a oil/wax finish.
The base and book rack are connected to the top via threaded inserts and M6 black bolts.
Dimensions
approximately 40” x 30” by 15-1/2” tall
History
This Elm slice has been a piece of wood that I thought about and considered how to use it for almost two years. I was drawn to the live edge and the interesting void in the center, but unsure of how to deal with the felling wedge that disrupted the live-edge. I considered cutting off all the edge and making it a cube, or a rectangular top, but the shape of the “prow” kept me thinking about how to turn flaws into features. I then came onto the idea of making the cut edge a component of the use of the top. A bookshelf of magazines and books in the shop helped get me to a book rack, and with that inspiration, it came together quickly. This piece also inspired me to teach myself to weld, because I envisioned unique steel features for the coffee table. This table has challenged me and given me some rich gifts in return. I will be sad when it sells.